Buick Automobiles – Now Second in the GM Hierarchy

Buick is one of the oldest automobile brands in United States history. David Dunbar Buick, a Scottish-American engineer who had previously worked on steam engines, founded the company in 1899. Its first car, the Buick No. 1, came out in 1900. This was a two-cylinder, four-horsepower vehicle that could reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.

Success as an Independent

Buick made reliable cars. In 1904, the company introduced the first valve-in-head engine, a revolutionary design that is still used in many cars today. In 1908, Buick became the world’s largest automobile manufacturer, a title it held for several years.

Joining the GM Family

During 1909, Buick joined General Motors. Under GM’s ownership, Buick continued to grow and innovate. Buick eventually became second only to Cadillac in price-point. By the 1920s, the company had introduced a number of new models, including the Buick La Crosse and the Buick Roadmaster. These cars offered luxury and comfort, and they helped to establish Buick as a premium brand.

Changing Designs

Following World War II, Buick’s Ned Nickles designed decorative “ventiports” along each side of the car fronts. They mimicked the exhaust ports from fighter planes. One form or another decorated future models for many years.

In the 1950s, Buick introduced the Wildcat, a powerful and stylish car that became a popular choice for celebrities and other high-profile individuals. By the 1960s, the company had introduced the Riviera, a sleek and stylish coupe that became one of the most popular cars of the decade.

Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Buick continued to produce popular cars, including the Regal and the Le Sabre. However, the company faced competition from Japanese automakers in the 1990s. As a result, Buick’s sales began to decline.

In recent years, Buick has made a comeback. The company has introduced a number of new models, including the Enclave, the Encore, and the Cascada. These cars succeeded with consumers, and they have helped to boost Buick’s sales.

Today, Buick is a thriving brand with a loyal following. The company continues to produce high-quality, reliable cars that offer a great value.

Models

Here are some of the most notable Buick models throughout the years:

Buick No. 1 (1900): The first Buick car, a two-cylinder, four-horsepower vehicle that could reach speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
Model 10 (1904): The first Buick car with a valve-in-head engine.
LaCrosse (1926): luxury car that helped to establish Buick as a premium brand.
Wildcat (1953): powerful and stylish car that became a popular choice for celebrities and other high-profile individuals.
Riviera (1963): sleek and stylish coupe that became one of the most popular cars of the decade.
Regal (1973): popular midsize car that was known for its performance and handling.
LeSabre (1959): full-size car that was known for its comfort and luxury.
Enclave (2007): large crossover SUV that has been one of Buick’s most popular models in recent years.
Encore (2013): small crossover SUV that has been well-received by consumers.
Cascada (2016): convertible that offers a unique driving experience.